Estimator

Sunstruct Project Management; Coolum Beach; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Sunstruct Project Management is seeking an experienced Estimator to join the commercial team on the Sunshine Coast and broader SEQ region. You will translate drawings, specs and scopes into detailed, defensible pricing, working closely with commercial and delivery teams from tender through to handover.

You will prepare detailed quantities, cost plans and competitive tender submissions while building strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers to ensure sustainable margins.

Qualifications

• 4+ years' experience in an estimating role within the Australian construction industry.
• Strong ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications and scopes.
• Confident with quantity take-offs and cost planning.
• High attention to detail and deadline-driven.
• Confident communicator — written and verbal.
• Proficiency with estimating software (CostX or similar) and digital plan-reading tools.

Responsibilities

• Prepare detailed quantity take-offs from drawings and specifications.
• Compile accurate and competitive tender submissions within deadlines.
• Analyse tender documents, scopes and drawings to identify risks, exclusions and clarifications.
• Prepare cost plans and budget estimates at various project stages.
• Source and obtain competitive pricing from subcontractors and suppliers.
• Negotiate rates to support competitive tender outcomes.

Skills

Reading drawings

Cost planning

Estimating software (CostX)

Tools

CostX

Job description

For over 23 years, Sunstruct has been designing and building commercial and multi-residential projects across the Sunshine Coast and beyond. We are proud of our quality, integrity and lasting relationships. Now we are entering an exciting new phase of growth and you will have the opportunity to help shape that journey.

We are seeking an experienced Estimator to join our commercial team, preparing accurate and competitive tenders across a portfolio of residential and commercial projects on the Sunshine Coast and broader SEQ region. This is a pivotal role for someone who takes pride in thorough, well-considered estimates and enjoys being closely involved from tender through to project handover.

Purpose of the Role

To prepare accurate, competitive and well-documented cost estimates and tenders that give Sunstruct the best chance of securing quality work at sustainable margins.

The Estimator translates drawings, specifications and scope documents into detailed, defensible pricing — working closely with the commercial and delivery teams to ensure a smooth handover from tender to construction.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare detailed quantity take-offs from drawings and specifications

Compile accurate and competitive tender submissions within deadlines

Analyse tender documents, scopes and drawings to identify risks, exclusions and clarifications

Prepare cost plans and budget estimates at various project stages

Procurement & Subcontractor Management

Source and obtain competitive pricing from subcontractors and suppliers

Review and compare subcontractor and supplier quotations

Build and maintain relationships with a reliable subcontractor and supplier base

Negotiate rates and terms to support competitive tender outcomes

Liaise closely with clients, subcontractors and suppliers during the tender phase

Work with project managers and site teams to ensure smooth handover of successful tenders

Provide input on buildability, sequencing and value engineering opportunities

Maintain accurate estimating records, pricing registers and historical cost data

What You Bring

4+ years' experience in an estimating role within the Australian construction industry

Strong ability to read and interpret drawings, specifications and scopes

Confident with quantity take-offs and cost planning

High attention to detail and deadline-driven

Confident communicator — written and verbal

Proficiency with estimating software (costX or similar) and digital plan-reading tools

What We Offer

Competitive salary based on experience, consistent work across multiple projects, supportive friendly team culture and an opportunity to grow with an established, reputable company.